PISCATAWAY – Rutgers football is off to a strong start with a 2-0 record after defeating Akron 49-17 on Saturday at SHI Stadium. This victory marks the Scarlet Knights’ second consecutive win as they maintain their positive momentum early in the season.
Following this win, Rutgers will enjoy a bye week before facing Virginia Tech on September 21 for their first away game of the season.
Here are some key highlights from the game:
Kyle Monangai had a standout performance as Rutgers’ running back. After rushing for 165 yards against Howard last week, Monangai amassed 208 yards on 27 carries and scored three touchdowns against Akron. He became the first Scarlet Knight to achieve over 200 rushing yards in a game since 2014 and now ranks ninth in the program’s history with 2,315 career rushing yards. Monangai credited his offensive line for his success, emphasizing their crucial role in his performance.
In the game, Monangai rushed for 162 yards in the first half, highlighted by a 46-yard run that set up his touchdown. He also recorded a career-high 62-yard run that contributed to another touchdown. “When everybody’s doing their job and Kyle gets the ball, it’s like, ‘Go, Kyle, go,’” said quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis, showcasing Monangai’s importance to the offense, which suggests he’s on track for another 1,000-yard season.
Kaliakmanis also had a solid day, completing 14-of-23 passes for 230 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception. This marks the first time since 2015 that Rutgers has had back-to-back games with at least three passing touchdowns. A notable play came late in the third quarter when Kaliakmanis completed a 58-yard touchdown pass to Chris Long.
However, linebacker Tyreem Powell was once again listed as questionable but did not participate in the game. Powell is recovering from a torn Achilles and will ideally benefit from the upcoming bye week to prepare for his potential debut against Virginia Tech.
As the team heads into its first bye week, it finds itself in a promising position after easily winning both of its opening games. This break comes at an optimal time as it allows additional recovery for players like Powell, defensive end Wesley Bailey, and running back Sam Brown, who all missed games due to injuries.
In other game notes, Rutgers converted 6-of-9 on third downs; safety Desmond Igbinosun led the defense with six tackles, and defensive back Shaquan Loyal recorded an interception. Chris Long caught four passes for 87 yards, and freshman running back Antwan Raymond scored his second touchdown of the season.